Sociology

This essential and authoritative text lays the foundations for a theoretically and methodologically robust understanding of sociology. Key topics are then examined in an accessible yet rigorous manner, encouraging reflection within a wide social, cultural and historical context. Topical and fascinating examples from around the world help to contextualise and apply sociological thinking to our own lives.

List of contents

List of case studies
List of World in focus boxes
Contributors
Preface
Guided tour
How to use this book
Acknowledgements
 
Part 1 Introduction to the sociological imagination

1. Sociological Thinking
2. Sociological Theories
3. Sociological Research

 
Part 2 Introduction to Social Divisions

1. Social Stratification and Class
2. Gender
3. ‘Race’, Ethnicity and Nationalism
4. Age
5. Disability
6. Global Divisions

 
Part 3 Introduction to Understanding Social Life

1. Environment
2. Families and Relationships
3. Work
4. Health, Illness and the Body
5. Crime and Punishment

 
Part 4 Introduction to Knowledge and Power

1. Education
2. Religion
3. The Mass Media

 
Glossary
References
Index

About the author

Samantha Punch is Senior Lecturer in Sociology at University of Stirling
Jeni Harden is Senior Lecturer in Social Science and Health at University of Edinburgh
Ian Marsh is Principal Lecturer in Criminology at Liverpool Hope University
Mike Keating was formerly Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Sociology at Liverpool Hope University

Summary

The fifth edition of Sociology: Making Sense of Society retains the highly praised four-part structure and style of the fourth edition, and through this explores the diversity, contradictions and challenges we face in our social world.
 
This essential and authoritative text lays the foundations for a theoretically and methodologically strong understanding of sociology.  Key topics are then examined in an accessible but thorough way, encouraging reflection within a wide social, cultural and historical context.  Fascinating topical examples from around the world help to contextualise and apply sociological thinking to our own lives.
 
Crucially, this text frequently asks you to consider your position in the world, drawing you into the debates and conveying the excitement of studying sociology.
 

Product details

• Authors: Jeni Harden, Mike Keating, Ian Marsh, Samantha Punch
• Publisher: Pearson Academic
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 30.05.2013
• EAN: 9781408269541
• ISBN: 978-1-4082-6954-1
• No. of pages: 888
• Dimensions: 196 mm x 264 mm x 36 mm
• Weight: 1640 g
• Series: Longman; Longman
• Subject: Social sciences, law, business > Sociology > Sociological theories